Evan Hansen is a Democratic delegate representing District 79 in the West Virginia House of Delegates , serving since 2019. Born on July 22, 1966, in Newark, NJ, he is the Deputy Minority Leader, president of Downstream Strategies , a scientist, and small business owner focused on water, energy, and economic development. Notable achievements include responding to the 2014 Freedom Industries chemical leak affecting 300,000 residents, testifying against increasing cancer-causing chemicals in rivers, sponsoring 18 bills in 2026 , and board roles with Main Street Morgantown, Spark! Imagination and Science Center, Canaan Valley Institute, Morgantown Rotary Club, Read Aloud of Monongalia County, and the U.S. EPA's Local Government Advisory Committee.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: B.S. in Computer Science and Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology; M.S. in Energy and Resources from the University of California, Berkeley .
• Professional Experience: Research Analyst and Associate at Tellus Institute/Stockholm Environment Institute-Boston ; President of Downstream Strategies , advancing projects in new energy, mine restoration, river cleanup, and local food growth.
• Political Experience: Elected to West Virginia House of Delegates in 2018 for District 79 ; advocates for clean water, economic diversification, and long-term state investments; serves as Deputy Minority Leader .